Key Information: Goals & Growth. There was happiness, music, and dancing in Kinuuma Village, Masindi, when the Aliguma Found...
Key Information:
Goals & Growth.There was happiness, music, and dancing in Kinuuma Village, Masindi, when the Aliguma Foundation officially launched the Sunny Magezi Academy, supported by the Uefa Foundation For Children - marking a bright new phase in its efforts to uplift communities through sports, learning, and business.
As the last whistle echoed at the Aliguma Foundation (AFSEC)'s new field in Kinuuma Village, Masindi, the ensuing cheers were not only in celebration of Kinuuma FC's 3-1 win against Kabutukuru FC — they marked a fresh start for the entire community.
The game marked a day that highlighted the strength of sport and education as the Aliguma Foundation officially introduced the Sunny Magezi Academy, a school founded on love, vision, and a UEFA-backed aspiration.
The symbolic match saw Farouk Muhinda, Tony Katusabe, and Sula Asiimwe score goals for Kinuuma FC, while Vincent Achala scored the only goal for Kabutukuru. The gathering of villagers, officials, and students danced and cheered as football and education came together in a single festive event.
This marks the beginning of transformation," stated Ritah Aliguma, head of the Aliguma Foundation. "The same drive our young people display on the field is what we aim to direct into the classroom — focusing on discipline, collaboration, and confidence.
The debut of the Sunny Magezi Academy followed the UEFA Foundation for Children's third consecutive worldwide grant to the Aliguma Foundation — as part of a €5 million program that backs 72 projects around the world. Uganda's inclusion once more highlights the Foundation's consistent influence in transforming football enthusiasm into tangible social transformation.
Built on legacy
The academy honors the memory of Ritah's late parents, Mr. Magezi Steven Nyakana and Mrs. Sunny Nsungwa, whose principles of kindness and perseverance continue to influence the Foundation's activities.
Located on 15 acres at AFSEC, the school will combine national and international curricula with programs focused on talent growth and skill development. The first 50 parents who enroll their children will get free uniforms — a move that received heartfelt applause.
Prior to the ribbon-cutting ceremony, students performed an energetic display — featuring songs, poetry, traditional dances, brief plays, and races — that honored learning and unity. Their happiness brought many to tears. “These children are the pulse of Sunny Magezi,” stated Immaculate Owomugisha Blessing, president of the U.S. Exchange Alumni Network for Uganda. “This is what hope resembles.”
Government backing
The gathering included Buruli County MP Ronald Aled Akugizibwe, Masindi DEO Monica Kiiza, religious figures, and U.S. Exchange Alumni participants.
Hon. Akugizibwe referred to it as "a model of rural development," while DEO Kiiza promised prompt registration and licensing for the new institution. Their backing highlighted that Sunny Magezi Academy is not just a private aspiration but also a significant achievement for Masindi's educational landscape.
With classrooms now open, the pitch being utilized, and new courses in tailoring, IT, and business development set to launch, AFSEC is poised to evolve into a comprehensive center for education and employment opportunities in rural Uganda.
NUMBERS AT A GLANCE
6: Classrooms already completed
15:Land spanning acres for education and sports
5:Million euros UEFA Foundation global fund
50:Free attire for the first enrolled students
30:Children registered on the first day
600:Individuals participated in the school's opening event.
